Types of Certifications

The list of possible certifications is long, so it’s a good idea to know what each of them stand for and what makes them different. Here, you’ll find an overview of some of the main certifications that apply to coffees, so you can make an informed choice based on your values and those of your customers.

The list of possible certifications is long, so it’s a good idea to know what each of them stand for and what makes them different. Here, you’ll find an overview of some of the main certifications that apply to coffees, so you can make an informed choice based on your values and those of your customers.

Types of Certifications

Fair Trade

Coffee and tea were the first agricultural products to be sold as fair trade. To meet the growing demand for products that producers and workers were fairly compensated for, certification programs were created.

Products bearing a fair trade certification logo have been independently certified to assure customers that these products are compliant with the program. Producers are also required to meet certain criteria, which include sustainable practices, labour standards, and democratic involvement.

Organic

Products that are certified organic have been grown without the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), synthetic chemicals, fertilizers, antibiotics, or hormones.